Higher and Postsecondary Education
The Master of Arts in Higher and Postsecondary Education is a one year full time program designed for students seeking advanced expertise in the administration, management, and teaching practices within higher education institutions. The curriculum integrates organizational theory, educational leadership, student development, and policy analysis to provide a strong foundation for managing and improving postsecondary educational environments. Through this program, students develop leadership and management skills, higher education policy knowledge, student development strategies, and administrative expertise, preparing them to address the unique challenges of colleges and universities while fostering student success and institutional effectiveness.
This on campus program immerses students in a practical and collaborative learning environment where lectures, case studies, workshops, and applied projects provide hands on experience in higher education administration and pedagogy. Students refine program management skills, curriculum and assessment strategies, student engagement techniques, and institutional research competencies through applied projects, fieldwork, and team collaboration. Graduates are prepared to work in universities, colleges, academic support centers, and educational organizations, equipping them to design and implement policies, lead academic programs, and support student learning and institutional improvement.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Higher and Postsecondary Education
- Degree Type: Master of Arts
- Duration: 1 year
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 May 2026
- Location: Columbia University, United States
- Field of Study: Education
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations in Higher Education
• Introduction to Higher and Postsecondary Education
• Student Development and Learning Theories
• Educational Leadership and Administration
• Research Methods in Postsecondary Contexts
Semester 2 – Advanced Applications and Educational Practice
• Policy Analysis and Institutional Governance
• Curriculum Design and Assessment in Higher Education
• Seminar in Leadership and Academic Practice
• Applied Project in Higher Education Administration
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in higher education administration, academic program leadership, student affairs, and policy development. Career paths include academic program coordinator, student affairs administrator, higher education policy analyst, curriculum specialist, and institutional research professional. Graduates are equipped to manage academic programs, develop student support initiatives, assess institutional effectiveness, and implement research based strategies to enhance higher education outcomes. The program also prepares learners for leadership, advisory, and applied roles in universities and colleges, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to student success, institutional improvement, and educational innovation.
Why Choose This Program
Students choose this program because it combines higher education leadership, postsecondary policy expertise, applied administrative experience, and research based strategies within a one year intensive framework. The curriculum emphasizes applied projects, leadership practice, and evidence based educational strategies, allowing learners to develop professional, analytical, and managerial skills necessary for success in higher education contexts. Graduates gain the knowledge, confidence, and competencies to pursue careers in administration, policy, student support, and academic leadership while contributing meaningfully to the development and improvement of postsecondary institutions.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 212 854 1754
Email: admissions@columbia.edu
Address: University of Columbia, Admissions Office, New York, NY, United States
